Periodontal Surgery in Washington DC & Alexandria VA

When periodontal disease doesn’t respond to initial treatments like scaling and root planing, a more direct approach may be necessary. Periodontal surgery, also known as osseous surgery, flap surgery, or pocket depth reduction, is the standard for treating advanced periodontal infections.

Benefits of Periodontal Surgery

Some of the benefits of periodontal surgery include:

Reduced pocket depth

More accessibility for tooth brushing and flossing

Improved comfort during professional teeth cleanings

Fresher breath

Cessation of bleeding gums

Preservation of healthy gum tissue

Periodontal Surgery Gets to the Root of the Problem

As gum disease advances, the bond between the gums and teeth disappears. Pockets form between the gum and the teeth, deepening and allowing bacteria access to the tooth root and the bone beneath.

The bacteria in the pockets eat away at the bone, and tooth roots become covered in tartar and plaque. Bacteria continues to build up, infection increases, and gum tissue becomes increasingly diseased. Eventually the bone itself begins to dissolve. Without proper care, this cycle of infection can lead to tooth loss.

The Periodontal Surgery Process

When other, less invasive treatment methods have failed, periodontal surgery is recommended. Local anesthesia is administered to numb the gums, and a small incision is made to expose the tooth root and supporting bone.

Plaque and tartar buildup is removed, and the surface of the bone smoothed. If necessary, a bone graft may be implemented to rebuild diminished bone structure around the teeth. Infected gum tissue will also be carefully removed, and the gums fitted carefully back against the tooth. Tiny sutures will hold the gums in place while they heal, and with infection eliminated, bone tissue that had been lost will be able to regrow.

After Periodontal Surgery

Following periodontal surgery, medication to control any pain while the surgical site heals may be prescribed depending on the kind of stitches used, an appointment to remove them will be scheduled for six to ten days later. After about a month of healing, progress of the surgery site will be checked to ensure everything is healing properly.

Because the surgery involves trimming and reshaping of gum tissue, this may create the illusion that the affected teeth are longer than before, and teeth may also be more sensitive to temperature changes. Sensitivity toothpaste can be used if required.

Avoid bone and tooth loss from advanced gum disease with periodontal surgery. Contact us for an appointment at our Washington D.C. or Alexandria, VA offices.

Dr. Justin Zalewsky, Dr. Michael Hoge, and the Precision Periodontics and Implant Dentistry team offer a range of periodontal treatment options to the Virginia, Maryland, and Washington D.C. area, including residents seeking a periodontist in Annandale, Arlington, Burke, Chevy Chase, Falls Church, Fairfax, and Springfield. Please contact us to schedule a consultation with Dr. Zalewsky or Dr. Hoge, or request your appointment online.